Eat Me: Seven reasons to turn up for a dish of turnips

Turnip is a root vegetable commonly grown for its edible root bulb and leaves.

Its bulbous roots are often diced or chopped and pickled whereas its greens are used in stews and soups, leaving no part to waste.

It rich in a number of vitamins, including K, A, C, E, B1, B3, B5, B6, B2 and folate and minerals like manganese, fiber, potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium and copper.

It is also a good source of phosphorus, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein.

Here are six reasons to love turnips.

Prevents cancer

Turnip contains high levels of antioxidants and phytochemicals, which reduce the risk of cancer. The presence of glucosinolates prevents and as well as reduces the effect of cancer and can inhibit the growth of tumour cells.

Promotes good heart health

Turnip is rich in vitamin K which possess anti-inflammatory properties. These help in preventing heart attacks, heart strokes, and other heart ailments.

Turnip greens aid in digestion by absorbing more amount of bile which uses up the cholesterol present in the body. This results in the reduction of cholesterol.

Inhibits body odour

No one likes to smell like a piece of rotten cabbage as a result of body odour. Turnips have antibacterial properties that help kill odour-causing bacteria.

Plus, they are a good source of vitamin C and many other nutrients that help to combat body odour.

Good for the lungs

The vitamin A contained in turnip greens helps in maintaining healthy lungs by counteracting the effect of carcinogens present in cigarette smoke.

Carcinogens lead to a deficiency in vitamin A, resulting in lung inflammation, emphysema and other lung problems.

Aids weight loss

Turnips are low in calories. Their high fiber content on the other hand regulates metabolism, controls body weight and supports a healthy and active colon.

Boosts immunity to infections and diseases

Vitamins A,C,E, manganese and beta-carotene which serve as antioxidants make turnip an ace fighter of diseases and also prevents DNA damage to cells.

Lowers blood pressure

Turnips also have potassium, which regulates blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium which could lead to a heart attacks and stroke.